10 Best Things to Do in Verona, Italy for Food-Loving Travelers

When we planned our two-day stop in Verona with a dear friend visiting us from Rosario, Argentina, we didn’t expect to fall so deeply for this romantic northern Italian gem. Traveling in by train from Venice, this leg of our Northern Italy journey became one of the most memorable. With its fairytale charm, river views, rich history, and incredible food, Verona felt like a sweet pause before continuing to Bolzano, then along Lake Garda, on to Brescia, Bergamo, and finally the serene corners of Lake Como — including Cernobbio and Bellagio — before circling back home at Milan.

In this post, we’re sharing the 10 best things to do in Verona, Italy, with cozy stops, must-see sights, and delicious bites along the way — because we believe every great trip starts with a good plate (or glass).

1. Visit Juliet’s Balcony and the Casa di Giulietta

You can’t skip the iconic Casa di Giulietta, just a short walk from Piazza delle Erbe. While it’s popular, we found it charming to stand in the tiny courtyard and imagine centuries of lovers passing through. The balcony, though possibly fictional, still radiates romance.

Colorful storefront in Verona city center.

Ivy-covered arch near Juliet’s courtyard.

Go early for a quieter moment, then wander to the nearby piazza for espresso and morning buzz.

2. Stroll or Cycle Along the Adige River

We rented our wheels through Verona Bike and followed the Adige’s flow from Castelvecchio Bridge all the way toward Ponte Pietra. Just steps from Castelvecchio, we paused to admire the Arch of Gavi, a striking Roman monument built in the 1st century AD.

Unlike most arches that celebrate emperors, this one was dedicated to a local noble family — and it has stood, been dismantled, and carefully reconstructed over the centuries.

Scenic river and stone bridge in Verona.

Crossing the bridge takes you into Veronetta, the bohemian side of Verona — quieter, colorful, and full of personality. From here, the path up to Castel San Pietro begins, making it an ideal route for anyone combining sightseeing with slow travel.

3. Wander Piazza Bra and the Arena

These two historic squares are the heartbeat of the city. Piazza delle Erbe bustles with cafés, market stalls, and a vibrant aperitivo scene — perfect for soaking up Verona food culture. Don’t miss the Torre dei Lamberti if you want panoramic city views.

Then head over to Piazza Bra, one of the largest squares in Italy and home to the impressive Verona Arena. Right across from the amphitheater stands Palazzo Barbieri, a neoclassical gem that now serves as Verona’s city hall.

Its stately columns and soft pink façade add elegance to the square — and it’s often a quiet photo spot amid the bustle. In the evening, the square comes alive with soft lighting and locals gathering before dinner.

With wide promenades and plenty of places to sit, it’s a great spot to enjoy a gelato or a glass of wine before dinner. The verona food scene really shines around here — more on that soon.

4. Aperitivo Time: Try the Venetian Select & Local Wines

For aperitivo in Verona, skip the usual Aperol and go for something more local: the Venetian aperitivo Select. With its rich ruby color and herbaceous, bittersweet flavor, it’s a bolder, more aromatic twist on the classic spritz — and honestly, it became one of our favorite discoveries on this trip.

We sipped ours at Osteria Caffè Monte Baldo, a classic spot known for its cicchetti and natural wines. Their sidewalk tables are perfect for people-watching, and they always have a few veggie-forward bites to pair with your drink. It’s the kind of place where you can linger — no rush, no pretense, just local rhythm.

And if you’re more into wine than spritzes, you’re in the right place. Verona is at the heart of one of Italy’s most celebrated wine regions. The star of the show is Amarone della Valpolicella, a bold, full-bodied red made from partially dried grapes. But don’t stop there — you’ll also find Valpolicella Classico, which is lighter and fruitier, Valpolicella Superiore, more structured, and Recioto della Valpolicella, a sweet red perfect for dessert. If white is more your style, try a chilled glass of Soave or Lugana, both crisp and refreshing with just the right amount of minerality.

Whatever you choose, there’s something magical about sipping wine in Verona as the light softens and the streets begin to glow. It’s not just about the drink — it’s the pace, the setting, the mood.

5. Visit Santa Maria della Scala

Tucked near the heart of the historic center, Santa Maria della Scala is one of the quieter but most beautiful churches we’ve visited in northern Italy. The frescoes, arches, and silence offer a pause from the buzz of sightseeing — and the cool air was welcome on a warm August day.

It’s free to visit, easy to access, and a wonderful escape if you’re wondering what to do in Verona for a day and want to balance food with culture.

6. Dine at Vegan Restaurant La Lanterna

If you’re searching for a vegan restaurant in Verona Italy, don’t miss La Lanterna. Set in a cozy alley in the city center, it’s one of the few fully plant-based spots in the region — and absolutely worth the visit.

Cozy entrance of Verona’s Vegan Restaurant.

We tried their vegan lasagna and zucchini carpaccio, both flavorful and beautifully plated. The warm service and quiet setting made it a standout in the best restaurants in Verona for conscious travelers.

7. Morning Pastries in Città Antica (and the Famous Torta Russa)

On our first morning, we strolled to Flego in Città Antica for perfect espresso and flaky pastries — their fruit tarts and pistachio cream croissants are worth the detour. Later, in the Cittadella area, we tried the famous Torta Russa di Verona, a local specialty made with almonds and puff pastry.

We always find that exploring local pastries is one of the best ways to connect with culture — especially when paired with a bit of people-watching in a quiet piazza.

8. Dinner at Caffè al Teatro

Dinner at Caffè al Teatro was one of our most memorable meals. With a romantic setup just steps from the Arena, this refined but unpretentious spot offered seasonal risottos, local wines, and even a few veg-friendly surprises.

The staff was welcoming, and we lingered well past dinner, watching Verona light up in the evening. A perfect place to close the day.

9. Climb to Castel San Pietro for Sunset Views

After dinner, we made our way toward the Funicolare di Castel San Pietro, a short but scenic ride that whisks you from the riverside up to one of Verona’s most breathtaking viewpoints.

Funicolare climbing to Castel San Pietro.

This vintage-style funicular saves your legs and adds charm to the journey — especially at golden hour.

At the top, Castel San Pietro offers sweeping views over the Adige River, the city’s historic rooftops, and the distant hills. As the sun sets and the sky warms, the view turns cinematic. We watched as the city lights slowly flickered on — one of the most peaceful and unforgettable moments from our stay in Verona.

10. Escape to Spiaggia Punta Gro on Lake Garda

Though not technically in Verona, a visit to nearby Spiaggia Punta Gro was a perfect break from city heat. Just a short drive from Verona, this beach near Verona Italy has calm waters, soft pebbles, and mountain views in the distance.

We brought a picnic, soaked up the sun, and planned the next leg of our journey — bound for Brescia, then Bergamo, and eventually Lake Como’s quiet towns.

Where to Next?

After our two dreamy days exploring all the things to do in Verona, we continued to Bolzano, admired the mountain-kissed shores of Lake Garda, and wandered through Brescia, Bergamo, and finally Lake Como, visiting Cernobbio and Bellagio, before returning to Milan.

If you’re mapping out a Northern Italy route, don’t miss:

Final Thoughts

Verona surprised us with how much it offers — from iconic landmarks and peaceful promenades to an unexpected variety of Verona food, pastries, wine, and plant-based restaurants. Whether you’re planning a full trip or wondering what to do in Verona Italy for a day or two, this city delivers.

We hope this guide inspires you to explore Verona slowly, deliciously, and consciously. Let us know your favorite places — we’re always looking for reasons to return.